Inspired by Christ’s command to “Go into all the world and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15), St. Basil the Great Ukrainian Catholic Church in Winnipeg, Manitoba, recently welcomed Father Dr. Yuriy Sakvuk for a profound four-day Lenten Mission held from April 3rd to 6th, 2025. Through compelling narratives, both parables and real-life accounts, Father Yuriy illuminated key tenets of church teachings, guiding parishioners on their spiritual journey.
The central theme of the mission, “Our Way to Salvation,” encouraged reflection on life’s true purpose, moving beyond fleeting pleasures to prioritize a relationship with God. Participants were urged to “open the Bible” and make God their foremost priority, with the assurance that all else would find its proper place.
Life was thoughtfully likened to a road trip, emphasizing the necessity of knowing our destination, understanding the route, and heeding the guidance of our navigator – the Church. Drawing upon his extensive pilgrimages to the Holy Land and the Jordan River, Father Yuriy shared a particularly moving experience: the renewal of baptismal vows. This powerful act, involving the renunciation of Satan and the acceptance of Christ followed by a triple immersion in the Jordan River, was described as a symbolic death to our past selves, allowing for a new life in the Resurrection of Christ. The submersion, a moment where one cannot breathe, poignantly represents leaving behind old ways to embrace a renewed existence with Christ.
The importance of giving and receiving forgiveness was also explored through the contrasting examples of St. Peter and Judas. Both apostles and followers of Jesus, both ultimately betrayed Him. However, while Judas succumbed to pride, Peter sought and received forgiveness, ultimately becoming the foundational “Rock” of the Church. Father Yuriy reassured the congregation that God’s forgiveness is always available to those who sincerely ask.
Challenging a superficial understanding of Lent, Father Yuriy prompted attendees to consider its deeper meaning. While acknowledging that some view Lent as a period of physical discipline, he emphasized that limiting its observance to bodily restrictions neglects its spiritual essence. Lent, he explained, is a time for profound reflection on Jesus’ sacrifice and an opportunity to emulate His example. The inspiring story of St. Maximilian Kolbe, who selflessly gave his life for another, served as a powerful illustration of this principle.
Ultimately, the mission talks served to refocus thoughts on the ultimate goal of salvation. Parishioners were reminded of the importance of turning away from sin, actively seeking forgiveness, and faithfully following the Church through its sacraments, liturgical services, prayer and fasting, traditions, and the celebration of its feasts.
The St. Basil’s Pastoral Committee expressed deep gratitude to Father Mykhaylo for his organization of the Mission 2025 during this Jubilee Year of Hope, and extended heartfelt thanks to Father Yuriy for sharing his profound wisdom and practical guidance on living a life rooted in Jesus Christ.
Respectfully written by,
Natalia Hotel and Dorothy Labay
on behalf of the St. Basil’s Pastoral Committee
